Anyone do business with OutboardExchange in CT?

[preaney]

I'm a new boater and new to this forum and am in a bad situation with my outboard motor.<br /><br />I've got a 1986 Force outboard with a bad lower unit. I've been told at 2 different shops that it's not worth rebuilding, so I'm looking to replace it. I found a place online called Outboard Exchange in CT. They have the best price by far for a replacement gearcase(800 bucks vs. 1200-1500). I'm starting to wonder if there's a reason they're so much cheaper. <br />Anybody there ever deal with this company? If so, I'd appreciate any feedback you have. Also, if anybody has advice on stuff I should look out for when buying a used gearcase, I'd welcome that, too.<br /><br />I've got no real reason to doubt these guys; they offer a warranty, and the guy I spoke with on the phone was reasonable enough. But when I got their price, I was reminded of the old saying that if something seems too good to be true, it usually is.

 

[kevlar3000]

Re: Anyone do business with OutboardExchange in CT?

I would see if I could find any info from the better business bureau. That could give you an indication.<br /><br />Good Luck

 

[Admin5]

Re: Anyone do business with OutboardExchange in CT?

I did some research on them by talking to our iboats.com rebuilt engine department. They had heard of them and said that the only thing that they knew is that they are a local boat dealer with an online rebuilt engine program. Nothing good nor bad to say about them.<br /><br />One of the many things you need to be aware of with any rebuilder is will they really stand by their warranty! Some fly-by-night rebuilders will even offer a 3 year warranty on their units (that's longer than many manufacturer's warranties!). When you take it out of the box it already voids the warranty. <br /><br />Just to plug the iboats.com rebuilt components service for a second: We work with 8 of the largest rebuilders in the country. We give you the option to choose which you would like to work with based on price, warranty, availability, core exchange, shipping, etc. Because we are such a large account with them, if something does require warranty coverage, our rebuilders stay honest becuase they know we will pull our account the second they mistreat our customers. If you have not already checked out our program, goto http://www.boatmotors.com/motorparts/ I hope this helps.<br /><br />Admin5<br />iboats.com team member

 

[Liam]

Re: Anyone do business with OutboardExchange in CT?

I have had great service from Larry at the Marine Sports Center in Blackrock, CT. <br />2400 FAIRFIELD AVE<br />BRIDGEPORT, CT 06605<br />Sales Phone: (203) 335-8646<br />Fax: (203) 333-0537<br /><br />Larry seems a bit gruff if you don't know him but he is honest and extremely knowledgable of all marine engines.<br /><br />Good Luck<br /><br />Liam

 

[preaney]

Re: Anyone do business with OutboardExchange in CT?

Thanks for the feedback everyone.<br /><br />Well, I went and ordered the gearcase the guy had. From talking to the guy he seems to be trustworthy (although talk is cheap). My boat should be back on the water by labor day - I'll follow up after that just in case anyone is interested.